The New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED), Safe and Healthy Schools Bureau, was awarded a USDE grant to increase the number and quality of school-based mental health (SBMH) providers in high-need schools. By partnering with local education agencies (LEAs), universities, Native American communities, and other state agencies, EOP will increase the number of SBMH providers and access to care for school-aged youth in identified communities. The NMEOP will provide reimbursements, stipends and loan repayments for students obtaining a degree that leads to licensure as a school based behavioral health provided. The incentives are as follows:
Academic Support Incentive: We are recruiting students who are enrolled in master’s level or doctoral behavioral health programs (counseling, psychology, social work) in participating New Mexico universities (ENMU, NMHU, NMSU, UNM, WNMU). EOP will provide financial incentives (tuition reimbursement and loan repayment), along with resources and support to eligible participants
Internship/Practicum Placement Stipends: Stipends are available to qualifying EOP participants who complete practicums/internships via a partnering university placement (in an EOP approved high-need school/district) and commit to minimum employment of two years post-graduation in a high-need school/district. More information regarding this opportunity is forthcoming.
Salary Enhancement Stipend: In an effort to retain and recruit school-based behavioral health professionals, stipends are available to providers employed in EOP approved schools/districts. If the number of eligible participants exceeds the available grant funding, preference will be given to providers in LEAs identified with the highest needs, as per grant guidelines (ex., poverty, student-to-mental health provider ratio, etc).
Licensing/Licensure Fees Reimbursement: Qualifying EOP participants are eligible for up to $300 in reimbursement for professional licensing exam/licensure costs.
For information go to: http://www.nmeop.com/
Email: nmeop@crecnm.org
Phone: (505)226-1883
Or contact:
Deborah Chavez
Mental Health Service Coordinator
Expanding Opportunities Project Director
Important Information
EOP Is Calling for Presenters!
EOP is looking for inspirational presenters on school-based mental health topics for our virtual colloquium on July 24 and 25. If you’re interested in presenting, please fill out this form by May 9, 2025. See the Save the Date/Call for Presenters flyer for more information.
EOP Applications Announcement
EOP is in its last year of the five-year grant award period. Applications are now open and will close on August 29, 2025. *Funding is limited and first come, first serve to qualifying applicants. Be sure to check on this webpage under “What Funding is Available to Qualified Participants” for year five changes.